Name: Jumbo Shrimp in Butter Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tbsp butter, divided; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup white grape juice; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Jumbo Shrimp in Butter Garlic Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the natural flavors of succulent shrimp. The richness of butter combined with the pungency of garlic, a hint of citrus, and a touch of spice makes this a dish perfect for seafood lovers. It’s quick to prepare and can be enjoyed as a main course with pasta, rice, or even on its own as a delightful appetizer. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this recipe ensures a restaurant-quality meal in just under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

1 lb jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tbsp butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup white grape juice
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This helps the shrimp absorb more flavor and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and starts to sizzle, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, as this can lead to a bitter taste.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the pan. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be mindful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

With the pan still on medium heat, pour in the white grape juice and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the sauce reduce and concentrate, giving it a richer flavor.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Stir continuously until the butter has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss them gently in the sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-coated.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish, pouring the remaining butter garlic sauce over them. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra touch of citrus.

COOKING Note:

If you find the sauce too thick, add a tablespoon of water or broth to thin it out.
For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and a touch of olive oil for 10 minutes before cooking.
To maintain the shrimp’s juiciness, avoid cooking them at very high heat.

Serving Suggestions:

Pasta: Serve the shrimp over a bed of linguine or fettuccine, tossing the pasta in the leftover sauce for a full meal.
Rice: Pair the shrimp with steamed white rice, jasmine rice, or even risotto for a hearty dish.
Salad: For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread can be perfect for soaking up the delicious butter garlic sauce.

Tips:

Add Extra Heat: If you like a bit more spice, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end to make a richer, creamier sauce.
Alternative Herbs: Replace parsley with cilantro or chives for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or spinach to make it a more wholesome meal.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cooking Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 450mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can. However, the shrimp should be added at the end just to warm through, as pre-cooked shrimp may become tough if cooked for too long.

2. What can I use instead of white grape juice?
You can replace white grape juice with vegetable broth, apple juice, or a splash of white vinegar for acidity without the alcohol content.

3. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Make sure to cook the shrimp on medium heat and monitor closely. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

Conclusion

Jumbo Shrimp in Butter Garlic Sauce is a quick and satisfying recipe that showcases the natural sweetness of shrimp, enhanced by the robust flavors of garlic, butter, and a hint of spice. With versatile serving options, it’s a dish that can easily fit into a family dinner or a more formal setting. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to be a hit every time.